Dormitory Blaze at Kenyan Girls’ School Leaves Nation in Shock
A tragic fire tore through a dormitory at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, Kenya, early Thursday morning, killing at least 16 students and injuring dozens more.
Officials confirmed that the blaze broke out shortly after midnight while students were asleep inside the boarding facility. Emergency teams, police officers, and rescue workers rushed to the school as flames spread through the building.
Authorities said 79 students suffered injuries during the incident, though many have already been discharged from nearby hospitals after receiving treatment.
Rescue Operations Continue as Cause Remains Unknown
Kenyan authorities stated that investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the fire. Emergency response teams continued searching the surrounding area after reports that some students fled in panic during the chaos.
Witnesses described scenes of fear and confusion as students attempted to escape the burning dormitory. Some reportedly jumped from upper floors to avoid the flames, leading to additional injuries.
Government officials and local leaders visited the school following the tragedy, offering condolences to grieving families and promising a full investigation into the incident.
Concerns Raised Over School Fire Safety in Kenya
The heartbreaking incident has once again raised concerns about fire safety standards in Kenyan boarding schools. The country has experienced several deadly school fires over the years, prompting repeated calls for stronger safety measures and emergency preparedness.
Education officials said a review of school safety procedures could follow after the latest disaster. Parents gathered outside the school seeking information about their children as rescue and identification efforts continued throughout the day.
The school, located northwest of Nairobi, mainly serves girls aged between 15 and 18 years old.
